Most summertime memories are built outside. It’s the time of year we all look forward to with anticipation. As a father, you want your home to be the place your children’s friends want to be and the place your friends want to be. Use the following ideas to make your backyard the place to be this summer.
Set up a Fire Pit
Fire pits are great because they last beyond summer and into the fall. Summer nights call for roasting hot dogs over the fire and creating classic s’mores after the sun sets. There are many portable fire pits on the market that you can easily set up in the backyard or, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can dig your own fire pit using rocks or bricks and sand.
Keep Coolers at the Ready
The best homes are the ones that are prepared for company at a moment’s notice. In the summer, keep a large cooler or two in the backyard, ready to be filled with ice and cold drinks when friends stop by.
It’s helpful when grocery shopping to pick up a six-pack here and there and keep them cool in the house until you’re ready to put them in the cooler. Stock the cooler so you can easily spend hours just relaxing and sipping with friends.
Deck or Patio
Make sure there is a comfortable area in your backyard where everyone can hang out when they come over. Patios work well for a grill and table with chairs, but if possible, consider adding a deck for a more attractive outdoor seating area.
Comfortable Seating
Speaking of seating, how is your outdoor furniture? The elements can wear out outdoor furniture when it’s been used year after year. Check for ripped cushions or rust on chair legs and splurge on new furniture if needed.
Choose outdoor seating that is comfortable and makes guests want to stay a while.
Outdoor Music
You don’t need to set up a state-of-the-art stereo system to enjoy long summer nights outside with friends and family. If that’s your thing, by all means, make it happen.
If not, Bluetooth speakers work great. Keep one charged and at the ready with your favorite outdoor playlists anxiously awaiting their chance to pump music throughout your backyard.
Light up the Night
There are many creative ideas out there for lighting up your outdoor space. You’ll want to choose something that helps everyone see one another while they relax and enjoy the evening mood lighting. Go for subtlety when creating light in the backyard.
Vintage-style lightbulbs strung across a deck give off a warm amber glow. Porch lights in the backyard with a soft white light rather than floodlights work well too. Even tiki torches create plenty of evening light and keep bugs away at the same time. Plus, they give you a reason to play reggae music and pretend you are on an island.
Have fun as you make your backyard the place to be this summer and enjoy those long summer nights.
